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What Are the Best Sleeping Positions During Pregnancy?﻿

WA lot changes with pregnancy. For many women, it can be a stressful time as they worry about diet and nutrition, contractions and the development of their baby. Many turn to apps like Bloomlife and social media forums to calm their fears. One thing that constantly remains a problem is sleep.

Many pregnant women have a hard time finding a comfortable position in which to sleep. The way you usually slept no longer seems to work as your body changes. This may be due to the size of your stomach, back pain, shortness of breath or heartburn. Hormonal changes may also lead to insomnia, causing you to shift position several times throughout the night. If this sounds like you, you may be wondering if you will ever have a restful night again. Luckily, there are some positions which can help you to feel a lot better.

First, let’s look at some common positions and whether or not they are safe during pregnancy.

Going to Sleep on Your Back

Sleeping on your back may have been your go-to position before you became pregnant. However, it can cause problems for both you and your baby. It can lead to backaches, problems breathing, digestive issues and low blood pressure. Your baby may also suffer from a decrease in circulation. This is because your growing abdomen puts pressure on your intestines, aorta, and vena cava. A study in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology also revealed that women who fall asleep on their backs in the third trimester have an increased risk of stillbirth.

Going to Sleep on Your Stomach

Early in your pregnancy, you may still be able to lie on your stomach. However, as your body grows and changes, you will most likely not feel comfortable. In fact, you may even find it difficult to roll onto your stomach. You don’t have to worry about hurting your baby in this position since the uterine walls will protect him or her. You just won’t be very comfortable.

So, what should you do instead?

Sleep on Your Side with Lots of Pillows

It is best to sleep on your side during pregnancy, especially your left side. This can increase the level of nutrients and blood which reach the baby and placenta. Try bending your legs and knees and placing a pillow between your legs. If your back hurts, you can place a pillow under your abdomen as well. You can also prop your upper body up with pillows if you experience heartburn. Some women prefer a special pregnancy pillow which is designed to support the bump, neck, knees, and back.

It may take a little time to adjust if you usually slept on your stomach or back. However, it is fine to change position during the night as you seek to make yourself more comfortable. The position you fall asleep in is the most important since that is where you’ll spend most of your time.

When your bump starts to grow, you can find it difficult to rest comfortably and safely. However, experts suggest sleeping on your side is best. Give this a try and use pillows to help relieve pain and make you more snug.